A
growing body of research shows that fruits and
vegetables are critical to promoting good health. To get
the amount that's recommended, most people need to
increase the amount of fruits and vegetables they
currently eat every day.

Fruits and vegetables contain essential vitamins,
minerals, and fiber that may help protect you from
chronic diseases. Compared with people who consume a
diet with only small amounts of fruits and vegetables,
those who eat more generous amounts as part of a
healthful diet are likely to have reduced risk of
chronic diseases, including stroke and perhaps other
cardiovascular diseases, and certain cancer.

Nutrients should come primarily from foods. Foods such
as fruits and vegetables contain not only the vitamins
and minerals that are often found in supplements, but
also other naturally occurring substances that may help
protect you from chronic diseases.